The wrestling world gathered in solemn remembrance as WWE Hall of Famer Hulk Hogan was laid to rest in a private, star-studded funeral service held Tuesday in Clearwater, Florida, just 12 days after his passing due to a heart attack. The event honored the enduring legacy of “The Immortal” Hulk Hogan, highlighting an outpouring of respect and emotion from friends, family, and wrestling icons alike.
According to multiple sources, including Steve Stasiak of Book Pro Wrestlers, the funeral was held at the same church in Clearwater where Hogan, whose real name was Terry Bollea, was baptized in 2023. The intimate ceremony saw a gathering of legendary WWE figures, close friends, and notable celebrities reflecting on Hogan’s remarkable impact both inside and outside the ring[1][2][3].
Notably, WWE Chairman Vince McMahon was present, offering a personal tribute to one of the company’s most iconic figures. Alongside McMahon, Triple H (Paul Michael Levesque) and Stephanie McMahon were spotted arriving via a private plane, underscoring the significance WWE leadership placed on honoring Hogan’s memory. Their attendance symbolized the deep respect Hogan commanded within the professional wrestling community[2].
A number of other celebrities who admired Hogan’s influence also came to pay their respects. Singer Kid Rock and comedian Theo Von were among those in attendance, demonstrating Hogan’s crossover appeal beyond wrestling[2]. President Donald Trump acknowledged the day by sharing a nostalgic arm-wrestling photo with Hogan on his Truth Social platform, remarking on the poignancy of the day[2].
The funeral was marked by heartfelt moments, with men and women dressed in black suits accented by orange boutonnieres carrying Hogan’s casket into the funeral home. This detail reflected the colors synonymous with Hogan’s legendary persona and WWE merchandising—a subtle, yet powerful homage to his larger-than-life image. Emotional speeches and remembrances recounted Hogan’s battles inside the ring, his contributions to popularizing professional wrestling worldwide, and his generosity and charisma off-screen.
Hogan’s decades-long career revolutionized the wrestling industry, propelling it into mainstream global entertainment during the 1980s and 1990s. His signature yellow and red attire, charismatic “Hulkamania” persona, and iconic catchphrases remain deeply ingrained in WWE’s history—a legacy the funeral poignantly celebrated.
Behind the scenes, Hogan’s prior health struggles were brought into focus following his death. It was revealed that he had battled leukemia and suffered from atrial fibrillation, an irregular heart rhythm—conditions contributing factors to his sudden passing, which was officially declared natural[2].
The state of Florida paid official tribute as well. Governor Ron DeSantis ordered flags at all public buildings to be flown at half-staff on the day preceding the funeral, declaring it “Hulk Hogan Day in Florida,” recognizing Hogan’s cultural significance and longtime ties to the state[2].
Sources close to WWE insiders have revealed that the company is planning special tribute programming in the weeks ahead, including a documentary celebrating Hogan’s career and influence on professional wrestling and pop culture. WWE.com and Fightful have confirmed that the production will feature interviews from Hogan’s peers, family, and notable figures who shared close bonds with the wrestling legend.
The outpouring of grief and admiration surrounding Hulk Hogan’s funeral underscores his unique role as a transformative figure in sports entertainment. Steve Stasiak noted that the ceremony was “both a farewell and a celebration — a chance to honor ‘The Immortal’ not just as a performer, but as a friend and inspiration to countless fans and colleagues”[1].
As the pro wrestling world absorbs the loss of one of its greatest icons, the spirit of Hulkamania endures, promising that Hogan’s contributions to WWE and wrestling at large will never be forgotten.
This article will be updated as more information and official WWE coverage become available.